If you’re after a wholesome, comforting recipe that nourishes mind, body and soul, Talbina is it. A porridge made from Barley Flour, Talbina was highly recommended by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ for its healing properties and ability to ease grief and sadness. Read about why Talbina maters today.
What Is Talbina?
The name Talbina comes from the Arabic word Laban (Milk), referring to the dish’s milky, creamy appearance.
Traditionally, Talbina is prepared by gently cooking Barley Flour with Milk or Water, sometimes sweetened with Honey.
Read more about what Roohts Talbina is made of.
According to authentic narrations, Talbina is recommended as a remedy:
"Talbina gives rest to the heart of the patient and makes it active and relieves some of his sorrow and grief."
(Sahih al-Bukhari)
Health Benefits of Talbina
- Rich in soluble Fibre—great for digestion and gut health
- Provides sustained energy
- Gentle on the stomach
- Naturally soothing and calming
- Supports heart health and may help lower cholesterol
- Ideal for the elderly, the sick, children, or anyone needing gentle nourishment.
- May help regulate Blood Sugar levels. Read more about that here.
- Beneficial during post partum.
Read our post about the Health Benefits of Talbina.
Ingredients in Talbina
Milk - Any type of Milk or replace with Water
Talbina - Ground Barley Flour
How to make it
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons Barley Flour (finely ground)
3/4 - 1 cup Milk (190 ml - 250 ml), or Water if preferred
Toppings
of choice
Instructions:
Add Barley Flour to a pot.
Pour in Milk.
Stir well to combine and remove any lumps.
Place over low heat.
Cook gently, stirring occassionally, for about 2-5 minutes until it thickens to a smooth, creamy consistency.
Note: Or you can add the Talbina Flour to the pot and roast it for 2 minutes over low heat, till it darkens in colour slightly.
Remove from heat.
Pour into a bowl.
Add Toppings of your choice.
Tip: If you prefer a thinner consistency, add more Milk or Water.
Storage
Leftover (prepared) Talbina
-
Fridge: Store in an airtight container or tightly sealed jar for up to 1 day.
-
Reheating: Warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or water to refresh its creamy texture.
FAQS
What toppings can I add to Talbina?
Roohts toppings include Mixed Seeds, Dried Figs and Chocolate Chunks. Here are some other options:
Nut & Seed Toppings (for crunch & healthy fats):
- Chopped Almonds
- Chopped Walnuts or Pecans
- Pistachios
- Cashews
- Flaxseeds/Linseeds
- Sunflower Seeds
Fruit Toppings (for sweetness & added fibre):
Fresh Fruits:
Bananas, Strawberries
, Blueberries
, Raspberries
, Apples
, Mango
Dried fruits:
Dates , Raisins or Sultanas, Apricots, Cranberries
Other Sweet Enhancers:
- Chocolate Chips
- Desiccated Coconut or Coconut Flakes
- Honey
- Date Syrup
- Maple Syrup
- Pistachio Paste or Cream (Add Kataifi Pastry to make it Dubai Chocolate inspired)
- A sprinkle of Cinnamon or Nutmeg
- Vanilla Extract (mix in while cooking)
Optional Creamy Additions:
- A swirl of Nut Butter (e.g. Almond or Peanut Butter) or Seed Butter like Tahini
- Ghee or Butter (traditional and rich)
When is the best time to eat it?
Here is the best time to eat it to reap it's benefits.
Is Talbina Healthy?
Talbina is a nutritional powerhouse. Read all about it's many health benefits.
Is it better than eating Oat Porridge?
This is a question we are asked a lot and the answer is both recipes are great for breakfast or brunch. Read more about Talbina vs Oat Porridge here.
